I have always found this dog to be super attractive.  Unfortunately, its size has kept me from actually getting one as I feel it is prudent to get only as much dog as you can handle.

This breed was bred for hunting waterfowl.  It takes 8 to 12 months to train the dog for this work.  In addition, this breed is excellent in obedience, agility, tracking (rescue operations) and as a therapy dog.

As its name implies, this dog is a golden color with shades ranging from light to quite dark.

Height is 20 to 24 inches.  Weight goes from 55 to 80 pounds.

Some retrievers are super affectionate while others are independent.  It is best to respect the dog’s character and not try to mold it to something it is not.  So, even if your friend’s retriever has exactly the qualities you want, your retriever may come out quite a bit different.  Generally though, they make good pets as well as working companions.  Like any working dog, they will need exercise.

Life expectancy is 10 to 12 years.  This breed is prone to hip problems, heart problems as well as eye problems, but then every dog has its day, folks.  The breed I have is supposedly prone to hip problems also and yet none of my 5 shelties  has had hip problems.

Easy to groom.  Sheds no more than most dogs even with that beautiful coat.